Uzbek Minister Affirms Afghanistan’s Right to Amu River Water Amid Ongoing Challenges
Uzbekistan’s Minister Shavkat Khamraev affirmed Afghanistan’s right to Amu River water via the Qosh Tepa Canal, which could support self-sufficiency in wheat. Concurrently, the UN criticized the ongoing ban on girls’ education, affecting millions. Russia’s ambassador described Afghanistan’s struggles against terrorism as linked to economic conditions. The IEA has sought recognition through requests for U.S. embassy handovers.
Shavkat Khamraev, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Water Resources, affirmed Afghanistan’s legitimate right to access water from the Amu River, highlighting that the country receives its share through the ongoing construction of the Qosh Tepa Canal. He emphasized that Tashkent has no objections to this arrangement and urged citizens to disregard misinformation. Khamraev described the Afghan people as “our relatives” and advocated for peaceful relations instead of conflict over water rights.
The Amu River serves as a vital water source for several Central Asian countries, including Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, which have utilized it for years. Afghanistan, however, has not utilized this water until recently, with intentions to secure its share through the Qosh Tepa Canal’s completion. This canal, spanning over 280 kilometers, is expected to irrigate 1.2 million hectares across Balkh, Jowzjan, and Faryab provinces.
Experts predict that upon completion, the Qosh Tepa Canal will enable Afghanistan to achieve self-sufficiency in wheat production, enhancing its agricultural capacity and food security. This development holds significant potential for addressing Afghanistan’s pressing agricultural challenges and improving its economy.
In related news, the UN expressed deep disappointment regarding the continued ban on girls’ secondary education in Afghanistan. Roza Otunbayeva, Special Representative for Afghanistan, stated that this ongoing denial negatively affects 2.2 million Afghan girls, compromising future prospects and overall Afghan societal wellbeing. Otunbayeva urged immediate reversal of the ban to avoid compounding Afghanistan’s crises.
Russia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Albert P. Khorev, noted Afghanistan’s efforts against militancy have been insufficient due to economic difficulties. He identified ISIS as a major threat to regional security, adding that Moscow is collaborating with regional partners to combat terrorism while dismissing claims of Pakistani support for Ukraine.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) has also requested the United States to hand over its embassy in Washington D.C. and to reopen its own embassy in Kabul. This request reflects the IEA’s aspirations for international recognition and improved diplomatic relations following recent developments, including the delegation’s visit which facilitated the release of an American citizen.
These updates surrounding Afghanistan highlight the country’s ongoing struggles with water access, education, and security, while emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and support in addressing these critical issues.
Uzbekistan’s acknowledgment of Afghanistan’s right to Amu River water marks a significant step toward fostering relations and addressing pressing challenges. The completion of the Qosh Tepa Canal could lead to agricultural self-sufficiency for Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the UN’s critique of the ban on girls’ education underscores severe humanitarian issues, while Russia and the IEA’s diplomatic efforts reflect the complex geopolitical landscape in the region. Ultimately, cooperative dialogues and international support are imperative for Afghanistan’s recovery and stability.
Original Source: www.ariananews.af
